Ecuador & The Galapagos (22 June)

Monday 22nd June

Today we start our journey to Ecuador. Arriving into Quito in the late afternoon, we’ll transfer to our hotel for some rest after our flight, in preparation for our first welcome dinner as a group.

Dinner included. Overnight in Quito.

Tuesday 23rd June

After a leisurely breakfast, we’ll head out to explore the heart of Quito city, discovering its history with our local guide. We’ll wander the narrow streets and visit iconic spots such as the ornate Golden Church, the bustling San Francisco Square and the iconic Main Square, home to the Presidential Palace.  We’ll stop at the charming Cruz Verde workshop, where the Luis family have been handcrafting traditional Quito candy ‘Colaciones’ for over a century. For lunch, we will have the opportunity to sit with locals and enjoy a freshly prepared meal bursting with Ecuadorian flavours. This afternoon has been left free for further exploration or a chance to relax after yesterdays’ long journey.

Breakfast, lunch and dinner included. Overnight in Quito.

Wednesday 24^th June

Driving north of Quito this morning, we’ll visit the middle of the world at the Equator Monument Complex. Have fun standing on both sides of the equator line at the same time with one foot in each hemisphere whilst also learning about the neutral forces at the centre of the globe! This afternoon, we indulge in exquisite Ecuadorian chocolate, with a visit to Yumbos Chocolate in Quito. Winners of multiple national awards, their creations showcase the incredible depth and variety of Ecuadorian cacao. We’ll discover the art of chocolate making, take in the rich aromas of good quality cacao, learn about the history of chocolate and, of course, savour the taste!

Breakfast included. Overnight in Quito.

Thursday 25^th June

This morning we step into the world of Ecuador’s most iconic accessory: the hat! Despite its name, the Panama hat actually comes from Ecuador, along with a variety of other traditional styles including felt fedoras and feathered headdresses. At a local workshop, we’ll learn about the significance of hats in Quito’s historic timeline, as well as the distinctive headwear from the different ethnic groups that make up Ecuador’s culture. We’ll then take part in a hat making workshop, creating our own headwear to take home.

Bringing us to lunchtime, we’ll join a chef who will first take us to the local market, introducing us to the endemic fruit and vegetables of Ecuador, before heading to a nearby restaurant where we’ll learn to prepare traditional dishes such as locro quiteño, encocado and chocolate fondue. The rest of the afternoon is left free for you to either relax at the hotel or further explore Quito.

Breakfast and lunch included. Overnight in Quito.

Friday 26th June

Today we take to the Pan American Highway to reach the indigenous town of Otavalo and then onwards to Pijal, a small village located in the heart of the Andes and home to the inspiring Sacha Warmikuna, or Women of Nature. This community initiative, led by local women, celebrates empowerment, sustainability and ancestral traditions.

An enriching experience awaits as we immerse ourselves in this fascinating culture. We’ll begin by learning age-old skills in farming, handicrafts, and cooking, and join the women in preparing Ají, the hot sauce that defines their cuisine, before savouring a farm-to-table lunch made with fresh organic produce harvested that very morning.

This afternoon, we’ll experience what daily life is like in the fields, as well as try our hand at creating unique handicrafts, taking home authentic treasures that directly support the women and their community.

Breakfast and lunch included. Overnight in Otavalo.

Saturday 27^th June

We start our day with a visit to the Tahuantinsuyo weaving workshop, for a demonstration of the authentic art of backstrap weaving, before trying this wonderful tradition ourselves first hand! Next, we’ll continue to Otavalo, famed for its vibrant indigenous market and where local people proudly wear their traditional blue ponchos. Here, discover a colourful world of handmade textiles, paintings, ceramics, jewellery, tapestries, and more. It’s the perfect place to pick up unique treasures at great prices. Best of all, you’ll have plenty of time to shop, explore, and connect with the local culture. With new purchases in hand, we’ll head to our cosy mountain lodge at Chilcabamba, where a hearty dinner awaits.

Breakfast and dinner included.  Overnight in Chilcabamba.

Sunday 28th June

Waking this morning at our beautiful rural lodge, we’ll start our day with an early visit, before breakfast, to the community at Loreto del Pedregal, and try our hand at a spot of milking! The community still carry out their farming very traditionally and we’ll learn a little of their life. We’ll return to the lodge for breakfast before heading out on a short walk through the crisp mountain air to a nearby waterfall, where we’ll enjoy the sounds of the water flowing into the river and the scent of wild grasses.

This afternoon we’ll visit a nearby Hacienda that houses a working dairy farm. Here, we’ll learn about the craft of cheesemaking, from production to aging, before sampling it alongside locally produced wine.

Breakfast, lunch and dinner included. Overnight in Chilcabamba.

Monday 29th June

After breakfast, we’ll set out on a refreshing walk around the Limpiopungo Lagoon, located at the foothills of the Ruminahui volcano. From this spot, we’ll enjoy some of the very best views of Cotopaxi, the highest active volcano in the world. Walking along the lake’s trails, we’ll listen for the calls of the highland birds and try to spot the various species, all whilst taking in the breathtaking sight of Cotopaxi’s almost perfectly symmetrical snow-capped cone.

By lunchtime, we’ll indulge in Ecuador’s culinary traditions. Joining the talented kitchen team, we’ll learn how to prepare delicious local snacks – a hands-on, fun and flavourful way to connect with the culture. We return to Quito in the afternoon to prepare for the next exciting step our adventure, the Galapagos Islands!

Breakfast, lunch and dinner included. Overnight in Quito.

Tuesday 30th June

Today we set out to explore one of the most extraordinary archipelagos in the world – the Galapagos Islands and the place that inspired Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution. Taking a flight from Quito to San Cristobal Island, we’ll transfer to our hotel in the town of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. After a short briefing about the days ahead, our Galapagos adventure begins.

This afternoon, we’ll visit La Loberia, a beautiful beach that serves as both a home and nursery for the playful Galpagos sea lions, generally found leaping across the rocks, or simply lounging on the sand. Along the way, we may also spot yellow warblers, frigatebirds, and several species of Darwin’s famous finches as well as marine iguanas between the rocks – creatures unique to the Galapagos. Here, we’ll have time to relax on the beach, and enjoy a refreshing swim or snorkel in the clear waters, before returning to town – a perfect introduction to this famous wildlife paradise.

Breakfast included. Overnight in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno.

Wednesday 1st July

After breakfast, you’ll head to the dock for a short boat ride to Lobos Island. As the boat moves across the water we’ll listen for the call of seabirds or the splash of sea lions playing nearby. Sometimes rays or even sharks can be spotted gliding beneath the surface, adding excitement to the journey. On Lobos Island, a guided walk introduces us to the island’s vibrant wildlife. Frigatebirds and blue-footed boobies nest and call from the rocks, while sea lions rest lazily along the shore. The soft white coral sand invites you to slow down, walk barefoot, or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Those who wish can also swim in the calm, clear waters before returning to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno.

In the afternoon, we’ll visit the Interpretation Center to learn about the natural and cultural history of the Galapagos, followed by a scenic walk to Punta Carola. Here we’ll witness frigatebirds, with their striking red pouches, flying at eye level, and enjoy a stunning sunset over the Pacific. Our day concludes with a unique gastronomic experience: preparing and tasting Ceviche de Canchalagua, a traditional Galapagos dish made with endemic molluscs. From sourcing to preparation, we’ll learn why this dish is considered a model of sustainable local cuisine.

Breakfast and lunch included. Overnight in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno.

Thursday 2nd July

This morning is yours to enjoy at leisure, with time to absorb the gentle pace of San Cristobal. Perhaps a relaxed breakfast, a quiet moment at the hotel, or a stroll along the beach accompanied by the soothing sound of the waves and the feel of soft sand underfoot.

This afternoon, we take a speedboat transfer to Santa Cruz Island. On arrival, we’ll check into our hotel, which will be our base for the next four nights.

Breakfast included. Overnight in Puerto Ayora.

Friday 3rd July

After breakfast, we’ll visit the famous giant tortoises in the Primicias Ranch Highland Reserve – an unforgettable experience. Walking among these gentle giants in their natural environment is one of the highlights of our Galpagos journey. Within the reserve, we can also explore one of the underground lava tubes, formed centuries ago when the island’s volcano was active.

Next, we’ll stop at a traditional Trapiche – a wooden roller mill used to extract juice from the sugarcane. Here we’ll learn all about the process of making sugarcane liquor with the steady beat of the press and the sweet aroma of crushed cane bringing the tradition vividly to life. Afterwards, we’ll continue to Playa de los Perros, where marine iguanas bask on the warm, black rock. The landscape here is striking with towering cacti, rugged lava, and the steady rhythmic waves against the shore create a setting that’s both dramatic and serene.

Breakfast and lunch included. Overnight in Puerto Ayora.

Saturday 4th July

This morning, we’ll visit the Charles Darwin Research Station to learn about many of the endemic species we’ve observed, as well as the vital conservation efforts taking place across the Galapagos Islands. Walking through the station, we’ll gain a deeper understanding of the work being done to protect this unique ecosystem.

In the afternoon, we’ll set out on a tour of Academy Bay. Here, there’s the chance to swim or snorkel among colourful fish and other marine life, where playful sea lions often glide past with their curious energy. The water is alive with movement and sound, making it an experience to remember. Above the shoreline, blue-footed boobies can sometimes be spotted perched or diving for food, adding to the richness of the setting.

Breakfast included. Overnight in Puerto Ayora.

Sunday 4th july

This morning will be spent at one of the most beautiful beaches in the Galapagos – Tortuga Bay. Located southwest of Puerto Ayora, its name comes from the sea turtles that return here to lay their eggs. The beach is a place of pure tranquillity, renowned for its pristine soft white sands that meets the sparkling Pacific Ocean. It’s the perfect place for us to take a scenic walk, a swim or snorkel in the clear waters, or simply to rest on the sand alongside the marine iguanas that bask here.

In the afternoon, we’ll return to Puerto Ayora for some leisure time. You might enjoy a quiet coffee overlooking the harbour, wander through the local craft shops, or visit the lively fish market where pelicans and sea lions mingle with fishermen. For those who wish, a stroll along the waterfront promenade offers the chance to soak up the easy rhythm of island life.

Breakfast included. Overnight in Puerto Ayora.

Monday 5th July

This morning, we’ll have time to relax before transferring to Baltra Airport. From here, we take our flight back to mainland Ecuador, carrying with us unforgettable memories of the wildlife paradise of the Galapagos. Upon arrival in Quito, we’ll be met at the airport and transferred to our hotel. The afternoon is free for you to enjoy at leisure – perhaps take a gentle stroll through the historic centre, relax in a café on one of the city’s plazas, or simply rest at the hotel. This evening, we’ll come together for our final group meal, sharing stories and celebrating the incredible journey we’ve experienced.

Breakfast and dinner included. Overnight in Quito.

Tuesday 6th July

Today our amazing adventure comes to an end as we transfer to the airport to start our journey home. We leave with lasting memories, cherished photos, and perhaps a piece of our hearts still tied to this enchanted land. Until next time, buen viaje!

Breakfast included. Overnight in flight.

Wednesday 7th July

Today we arrive home with the spirit of the Galapagos and Ecuador still with us – in the friendships we’ve made, the stories we’ll tell, and the unique experiences we’ve shared along the way.

If you are a UK passport holder no visa is required to enter Ecuador or the Galapagos Islands.  If you hold a passport from another country please check with the relevant embassy.

All passengers travelling to the Galapagos Islands must pay an entry fee to the National Park (currently US$200) and must purchase a Transit Control Card (currently US$20).  The Transit Control Card is purchased at Quito airport before travel to the islands and must be presented on arrival in the Galapagos along with your passport.  The entry fee for the national park must be paid in cash on arrival in the Galapagos.